In order to help avoid the requirement for expensive lift truck repairs, it is suggested to inspect the front end of your forklift regularly as part of your daily and even pre-shift examination. By catching any problems as they happen or in advance, you could also help prevent damage to any type of cargo as well. The following includes a few of the general guidelines on what particular things to check during frequent inspections of your material handling fleet.
Forks
It is essential to regularly check the forks because if they are cracked or worn out, they could probably fail without warning. Any type of fork damage means that your forklift should instantly be removed from service until it is safe and repaired once again. Visually check your forks for any visible indications of wear or damage. If the cracks run deeper than on the surface, replace them. Any type of wear on the forks beyond 10 percent is one more indication that you must replace the forks.
Mast
Ideally, the mast must tilt back and forward and be able to smoothly move down and up. If you find that the sliding surfaces are binding, you might need to grease the mast strip sliding surfaces as well as their fittings. On the inner mast there is a fitting situated on each side. The lift bracket side rollers are another lubrication point and there is also one on every side roller. Once the lubricating has been done, tilt it forward and backward and also raise and lower the mast a few times in order to make sure that the lubricant is worked into the fittings properly.
Tilt Cylinders
Your daily check needs to include the checking for damage and oil leaks since an uncontrolled mast movement can be a result of oil leakage. Whether the leaks are situated inside of the cylinder or are external, the end result may be cylinder drift and loss of fluid. If there are any signs of leaks or damage, you might need to replace just the seals or the entire cylinder assembly.
Chains
Check and make certain that the mast chains are not stretching beyond their acceptable limits. Also be sure to check the chains for signs of wear or damage utilizing a chain wear gauge. If there is wear beyond 2 percent, replace the chain. Also replace it if the chain appears rusted or kinked. The chain rollers and the sheave bearings should also be inspected for signs of wear.
The mast lift chain will normally wear at the pin-to-link connections. You could experience chain failure if you discover wear. This can end up damaging the product or front end parts. If you do not have time on hand to carry out regular fleet inspections or if you need help determining what exactly to check on your lift trucks, just contact your local lift truck dealer. Their trained service technicians would help your perform planned maintenance or PM checks according to your scheduling and application requirements.